Linear powered input device

ABSTRACT

A linear powered input device that utilizes linear input from a user and converts the linear input to rotational energy to perform work. The linear input is generated by lever arms having a slotted attachment at a pivot point that allows a free end of the lever arms to move linearly rather than in an arcuate path. The lever arms are connected to a power transmission mechanism that wraps around one or more drive wheels having one-way bearings mounted on one or more output shafts. The output shafts can be connected to any type of auxiliary device to perform the desired work. Output wheels may be mounted on the output shafts and operatively connected by a transmission link that allows linear motion of any lever arm in any allowable direction to cause the output shaft to rotate in the same rotational direction so as to receive continuous input and/or generate continuous output.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This patent application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/939,870, filed Nov. 12, 2015, entitled “Linear Powered Input Device,” which application is incorporated in its entirety here by this reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to methods and devices for generating energy using linear input.

BACKGROUND

The transfer of human force input on a typical crank type device is inefficient due to the crank type device not transferring all the force input to the rotational output. Human input onto crank arms can be in the form of muscle exertion and gravitational forces of the human mass onto crank arms. In the pure form a force is applied to a crank type device in one rotational direction. The only time the force is applied at 100 percent is when the force is applied at a 90 degree angle to the lever position. When the force is applied at a 0 degree angle, 0 percent of the force is applied to rotation. FIG. 1 demonstrates the concept of the force distribution on a bicycle crank in which the force is applied from the top towards the bottom.

As shown in FIG. 1, when the lever position (LP) is directly above the crank (referred to as the zero position), the potential energy (P) in the downward direction is at 100 percent. However, since the lever rotates rather than sliding up and down, the kinetic energy (K) is zero as there is no movement in the downward direction. As the lever position rotates 22.5 degrees counterclockwise, the potential energy of the downward force is at approximately 75% and the kinetic energy is at approximately 25%. As the lever position continues to rotate counterclockwise to 45 degrees, the potential energy decreases to approximately 50 percent while the kinetic energy increases to approximately 50 percent. When the lever position reaches a 90 degree angle relative to the application of force, the potential energy is at 0 percent and the kinetic energy reaches its maximum 100 percent. As rotation continues in the counterclockwise direction the lever position reaches 135 degrees where the potential energy increases to approximately 50 percent and the kinetic energy decreases to approximately 50 percent. When the lever position is at its lowest point at 180 degrees, the kinetic energy reaches its minimum 0 percent. Therefore, a rotating crank assembly does not maximize the available kinetic energy throughout most of its movement.

Rotating crank arms waste a lot of the energy from muscle exertion and gravitational forces because the energy is dissipated into different directions. Due to the inefficiencies of existing cranking devices, there is still a need for efficient cranking devices.

SUMMARY

The linear powered input devices of the present invention improve efficiency by applying the input force in a purely linear direction as opposed to a rotational direction. This allows 100 percent of the force to be directed in a single direction to assure that the maximum input energy on the output load is applied through the entire range of motion of the lever arms, and not just at a single point. Thus, the only loss of force is in the resistance encountered in the device, for example, from bearings of either the one way or two way types. The only time a device of the present invention is not applying 100 percent of the input force is when the lever arm hits its linear end limit where it needs to reverse directions.

The present invention comprises a frame upon which the components are mounted, a lever arm for the user to input energy in a linear direction, a power transmission mechanism to transmit the power from the lever arms to a drive wheel mounted on an output shaft to convert linear input energy to rotational energy. The output shaft may be connected to any type of load to perform work of any kind. The drive wheel may be mounted on the output shaft via a one-way bearing so as to impart rotational force only in one direction, and freewheel in the opposite rotational direction.

Idler wheels may be used so that the power transmission mechanism can be an infinite or continuous loop. The idler wheels also contribute in determining the length of the transmission mechanism, which determines the length of the stroke of a lever arm.

Output wheels may also be used to connect multiple driver wheels with one-way bearings mounted on their respective output shafts so that bidirectional movement of the lever arms provides constant input to the output shafts. Traditional crank type devices, however, require a half a revolution of the crank device before the lever arm can be used to transmit power again.

Some of the devices produce a rotational output in line with the human force input, while some will produce rotational output perpendicular to the human. Some embodiments could be used either way. Some of the devices would be best suited for input from leg power, while others can be configured to be powered by the arms, and others can be powered by the legs, the arms, or both the legs and the arms.

Power applied to lever arms can be transmitted to the output load using ropes, chains, gears, sprockets, and the like. These devices can be implemented in many different applications, such as 3 or 4 wheeled human powered cycles, rickshaws, small generators, transportation devices for physically restricted people, power to move water from a well, grinding grain, or any activity where a rotational force could be useful in improving the functions of everyday life. The devices of the present invention could replace the crank type inputs and be much more efficient in transferring the force applied into rotational force.

The different embodiments can be combined in a variety of combinations to create new embodiments. For instance one of the embodiments applies three different designs so leg power can be used with two-way or one-way input with either or both arms. The different ways output wheels are operatively connected to each other can be interchangeable between the embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a diagram of the amount of potential and kinetic energy imparted on rotating crank arms as they cycle.

FIGS. 2A-2C show elevation views of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 3A-3C show elevation views of another embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 4A-4C show elevation views of another embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 5A-5D show perspective views of another embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 6A-6C show perspective views of another embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 7A-7C show perspective views of another embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 8A-8C show perspective views of another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9A-9B show perspective views of another embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 10A-10B show perspective views of another embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of presently-preferred embodiments of the invention and is not intended to represent the only forms in which the present invention may be constructed or utilized. The description sets forth the functions and the sequence of steps for constructing and operating the invention in connection with the illustrated embodiments. It is to be understood, however, that the same or equivalent functions and sequences may be accomplished by different embodiments that are also intended to be encompassed within the spirit and scope of the invention.

Traditional human powered devices, such as bicycles, hand cranks, and the like, utilize circular motion on crank arms to generate output to a load. Therefore, maximum force is not applied to the crank arms through their entire range of motion, but rather, only when the direction of movement of the crank arms are parallel to the direction of the force. This tends to be a single point in the entire 360 degree revolution of the crank arm.

The linear powered input device 100 of the present invention, however, utilizes maximum power through the entire range of motion of each lever arm because the present invention uses human power in a purely linear direction to generate output to a load 10. Therefore, the device 100 can be configured so that the direction of the force applied is always in a direction the lever arm is moving. For example, on a typical two-dimensional coordinate plane, where the X coordinate represents the ground, all motion of the lever arms where the force is applied is purely in the Y direction. Therefore, none of the force is lost in the X direction through the entire range of motion. In typical human powered crank-type devices, all power is purely in the Y direction only at a single point when the crank arm is parallel to the X coordinate.

With reference to the figures, generally, the linear powered input device 100, comprises a frame 102; an output shaft 104 a rotatably mounted on the frame 102; a drive wheel 106 a mounted on the output shaft 104 a; a one-way bearing 108 a operatively connected to the drive wheel 106 a and the output shaft 104 a; and a power transmission mechanism 110 operatively connected to the drive wheel 106 a. In the preferred embodiment, the linear powered input device 100 further comprises at least one lever arm 112 a operatively attached to the frame 102 and the power transmission mechanism 110.

The lever arm 112 a is attached to the frame 102 and the power transmission mechanism 110 in such a manner that force is applied to the lever arm 112 a in a purely linear motion, rather than rotational motion, to impart force on the power transmission mechanism 110.

In general, the drive wheel 106 a defines a first plane of rotation and has a diameter. The drive wheel 106 a, the one-way bearing 108 a, and the output shaft 104 a are arranged such that rotation of the drive wheel 106 a in a first rotational direction causes rotation of the output shaft 104 a in the first rotational direction, and rotation of the drive wheel 106 a in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction does not cause rotation of the output shaft 104 a in the second rotational direction. Therefore, the one-way bearing 108 a is a form of one-way clutch, ratchet and pawl, and the like that allows the drive wheel 106 a to engage the output shaft 104 a in the first rotational direction and freewheel in the opposite rotational direction.

The power transmission mechanism 110 is operatively connected to the drive wheel 106 a. Portions of the power transmission mechanism 110 attached to the lever arms move in a linear direction to cause the drive wheel 106 a to turn in a first rotational direction or a second rotational direction depending on which direction the power transmission mechanism 110 is being forced. As such, the power transmission mechanism 110 may be a chain, a belt, a rope, a band, a rack, a slide, and the like.

With reference to FIGS. 2A-2C, in some embodiments, the power transmission mechanism 110 wraps around the drive wheel 106 a such that a first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a hangs vertically on one side of the drive wheel 106 a, and a second portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 b hangs on the opposite side of the drive wheel 106 a. The frame 102 has been removed for clarity, but any type of frame 102 can be used depending on the application.

In this arrangement, as shown in FIG. 2B, when the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a is forced downwardly in a first linear direction, the drive wheel 106 a rotates in the first rotational direction (in this example, counterclockwise). In this configuration, the drive wheel 106 a engages the one-way bearing 108 a causing it to rotate in the first rotational direction. Rotation of the one-way bearing 108 a in the first rotational direction engages the output shaft 104 a and causes the output shaft 104 a to rotate in the first rotational direction. In the meanwhile, this configuration causes the second portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 b to move upwardly in a second linear direction opposite the first linear direction so as to position the second portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 b to be forced downwardly.

As shown in FIG. 2C, when the second portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 b is forced downwardly in the first linear direction, the drive wheel 106 a rotates in the second rotational direction (in this example, clockwise), and the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a moves upwardly in the second linear direction. Due to the one-way bearing 108 a, however, the drive wheel 106 a does not engage the output shaft 104 a, and therefore, the output shaft 104 a does not rotate with the drive wheel 106 a in the second rotational direction. In other words, the drive wheel 106 a is allowed to freewheel in this direction. Therefore, in this embodiment, only the downward movement of the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a drives the output shaft 104 a. The one-way bearing 108 a allows the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a to be reset so that the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a can drive the output shaft 104 a again. Therefore, a first portion of the first power transmission mechanism 110 a moving in a first linear direction causes the first drive wheel 106 a and the first output shaft 104 a to move in the first rotational direction, and the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a moving in a second linear direction opposite the first linear direction, does not cause the output shaft 104 a to move in the second rotational direction.

A lever connector 114 a may be attached to the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a. A lever 112 a may be attached to the lever connector 114 a so that force can be more easily applied in the first direction. In some embodiments, a second lever connector 114 b may be attached to a second portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 b.

To allow the second portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 b to also contribute to the output shaft 104 a when forced in the first linear direction, a second drive wheel 106 b with a second one-way bearing 108 b mounted on a second output shaft 104 b may be used as shown in FIGS. 3A-3C. Again, the frame 102 is not shown for clarity.

In some embodiments, the linear powered input device 100, further comprises a second drive wheel 106 b having a second one-way bearing 108 b, the second drive wheel 106 b defining a second diameter and rotatable in the first plane of rotation. The second drive wheel 106 b may be mounted on a second output shaft 104 b, and the power transmission mechanism 110 may be operatively connected to the second drive wheel 106 b. The first and second output shafts 104 a, 104 b may be parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other a certain distance. In some embodiments, the power transmission mechanism 110 wraps around the first drive wheel 106 a along a top portion 116 of the first drive wheel 106 a, and the power transmission mechanism 110 wraps substantially around the second drive wheel 106 b.

For example, the power transmission mechanism 110 may have a first side 117 and a second side 118 opposite the first side 117. The first side 117 of the power transmission mechanism 110 may wrap around the top portion 116 of the first drive wheel 106 a so that the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a dangles from one side of the first drive wheel 106 a away from the second drive wheel 106 b. The intermediate portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 c (i.e. the portion in between the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a and the second portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 b) then descends towards the bottom 119 of the second drive wheel 106 b and the second side 118 of the power transmission mechanism 110 wraps around the second drive wheel 106 b until it loops around the second drive wheel 106 b and descends in between the first drive wheel 106 a and the second drive wheel 106 b so that the second portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 b is parallel to the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a.

In the example shown in FIG. 3B, when the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a moves in the first linear direction (e.g. downwardly), the first drive wheel 106 a rotates in the first rotational direction. Due to the orientation of the first one-way bearing 108 a, the first drive wheel 106 a engages the first one-way bearing 108 a, which causes the first output shaft 104 a to rotate in the first rotational direction (e.g. counterclockwise). In the meanwhile, due to the configuration of the first power transmission mechanism 110 as described above, the second drive wheel 106 b rotates in a second rotational direction (clockwise) opposite the first rotational direction. The second one-way bearing 108 b in the second drive wheel 106 b, however, is oriented so that the second drive wheel 106 b freewheels in the second rotational direction, and therefore, the second output shaft 104 b does not rotate with the second drive wheel 106 b in the second rotational direction.

As shown in FIG. 3C, when the second portion of the first power transmission mechanism 110 b moves in the first linear direction (e.g. downwardly), the second drive wheel 106 b rotates in the first rotational direction (e.g. counterclockwise). Due to the orientation of the second one-way bearing 108 b, the second drive wheel 106 b engages the second output shaft 104 b, and the second output shaft 104 b rotates in the first rotational direction (e.g. counterclockwise). In the meanwhile, due to the arrangement of the power transmission mechanism 110, downward movement of the second portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 b causes the first drive wheel 106 a to rotate in the second rotational direction. Due to the first one-way bearing 108 a of the first drive wheel 106 a, the first drive wheel 106 a is allowed to freewheel in the second rotational direction, and the first output shaft 104 a does not rotate with the first drive wheel 106 a in this direction. Therefore, if a load 10 is operatively attached to the first output shaft 104 a and the second output shaft 104 b, then movement of the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a in the first linear direction and movement of the second portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 b in the first linear direction will each impart work on the load 10. Therefore, if the device 100 is arranged vertically as shown, then whether the user is pressing down on the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a or on the second portion of the power transmission 110 b, the load 10 will receive constant power. In some embodiments, each output shaft 104 a, 104 b can have its own load in which case the loads will only receive power when their respective portion of the power transmission mechanism is moving in the first linear direction. Lever connectors 114 a, 114 b can be attached to the first and second portions of the power transmission mechanism 110 a, 110 b to which lever arms 112 a, 112 b can be attached, respectively, to facilitate movement of the first and second portions of the power transmission mechanism 110 a, 110 b.

If the user wants one of the output shafts 104 a, 104 b to move in opposite directions, the direction of one of the one-way bearings 108 a or 108 b can be reversed. In such a configuration, downward movement of one of the portions of the power transmission mechanism (e.g. 110 a) will cause both output shafts 104 a, 104 b to rotate in opposite directions, while downward movement of the other portion of the power transmission mechanism (e.g. 110 b) allows the drive wheels 106 a, 106 b to freewheel and reset the positioning of the first portion of the power transmission mechanism (e.g. 110 a).

In some embodiments, rotation of the second drive wheel 106 b may be operatively connected to the rotation of the first output shaft 104 a and rotation of the first drive wheel 106 a may be operatively connected to the rotation of the second output shaft 104 b, so that movement of either the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a or the second portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 b in the first linear direction causes rotation of the first output shaft 104 a in the same rotational direction. Similarly, downward movement of either portions of the power transmission mechanism 110 a, 110 b can cause the second output shaft 104 b to rotate in the same rotational direction.

For example, as shown in FIGS. 3A-3C, the linear powered input device 100 may further comprise a first output wheel 120 a mounted on the first output shaft 104 a to rotate with the first output shaft 104 a; a second output wheel 120 b mounted on the second output shaft 104 b to rotate with the second output shaft 104 b; and a transmission link 122 operatively connecting the first output wheel 120 a to the second output wheel 120 b. The transmission link 122 may be any mechanism that causes one output wheel 120 a to act upon another output wheel 120 b. In other words, the transmission link 122 causes movement of one output wheel 120 a to impart movement in another output wheel 120 b. For example, the transmission link 122 may be an elongated flexible-type material, such as a belt, a chain, a band, and the like; or a rigid rotating mechanism, such as a gear, a sprocket, and the like.

In this configuration, rotation of the first drive wheel 106 a (e.g. by pulling downwardly on the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a) causes rotation of the first output shaft 104 a in the first rotational direction, which in turn causes rotation of the first output wheel 120 a in the first rotational direction. Since the first output wheel 120 a is operatively connected to the second output wheel 120 b by the transmission link 122, rotation of the first output wheel 120 a causes rotation in the second output wheel 120 b. In the example shown in FIGS. 3A-3C, the transmission link is an elongated flexible material-type; therefore, rotation of the first output wheel 120 a in the first rotational direction causes rotation of the second output wheel 120 b in the first rotational direction. Since the output wheels 120 a, 120 b are attached to their respective output shafts 104 a, 104 b to rotate with their respective output shafts 104 a, 104 b, rotation of the second output wheel 120 b in the first rotational direction causes rotation of the second output shaft 104 b in the first rotational direction as shown in FIG. 3B. Although downward movement of the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a causes rotation of the second drive wheel 106 b in the second rotational direction, due to the orientation of the second one-way bearing 108 b, rotation of the second drive wheel 106 b in the second rotational direction does not interfere with the rotation of the second output shaft 104 b in the first rotational direction.

Similarly, as shown in FIG. 3C, rotation of the second drive wheel 106 b (e.g. by pulling downwardly on the second portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 b) in the first rotational direction causes rotation of the second output shaft 104 b in the first rotational direction, which in turn causes rotation of the second output wheel 120 b in the first rotational direction. Since the second output wheel 120 b is operatively connected to the first output wheel 120 a by the flexible-type transmission link 122 (e.g. a chain), rotation of the second output wheel 120 b in the first rotational direction causes rotation of the first output wheel 120 a in the first rotational direction. Gears and other types of transmission links 122 can be used to create the same effect as will be shown in later embodiments. Rotation of the first output wheel 120 a in the first rotational direction causes rotation of the first output shaft 104 a in the first rotational direction. Although downward movement of the second portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 b causes the first drive wheel 106 a to rotate in the second rotational direction, due to the orientation of the first one-way bearing 108 a, the first drive wheel 106 a is allowed to freewheel in this direction, and therefore does not interfere with the rotation of the first output shaft 104 a in the first rotational direction. Therefore, in this configuration, downward movement of either of the portions of the power transmission mechanism 110 a, 110 b causes both output shafts 104 a, 104 b to rotate in the same direction (in this example, counterclockwise). As such, the user is allowed to generate continuous output at both output shafts 104 a, 104 b by alternatingly pulling down on the first and second portions of the power transmission mechanism 110 a, 110 b. In other words, regardless of which portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a, 110 b is being forced in the first direction, both output shafts 104 a, 104 b will continuously receive power input. Lever connectors 114 a, 114 b can be attached to the first and second portions of the power transmission mechanism 110 a, 110 b to which lever arms 112 a, 112 b can be attached, respectively, to facilitate movement of the first and second portions of the power transmission mechanism 110 a, 110 b.

FIGS. 4A-4C show another embodiment of the present invention in which linear movement of a first portion of the transmission mechanism 110 a in either direction causes at least one output shaft 104 a to rotate in the same rotational direction. The linear powered input device 100 comprises a first drive wheel 106 a having a first one-way bearing 108 a, the first drive wheel 106 a defining a first diameter and rotatable in a first plane of rotation, the first drive wheel mounted on a first output shaft 104 a operatively connected to a first output wheel 120 a; and a second drive wheel 106 b having a second one-way bearing 108 b, the second drive wheel 106 b defining a second diameter and rotatable in the first plane of rotation, the second drive wheel 106 b mounted on a second output shaft 104 b operatively connected to a second output wheel 120 b. The frame 102 is not shown for clarity. A power transmission mechanism 110 may be operatively connected to the first drive wheel 106 a and the second drive wheel 106 b such that when the first portion of the first power transmission mechanism 110 a moves in the first linear direction (e.g. to the left as shown in FIG. 4B), the first drive wheel 106 a and the second drive wheel rotate in the first rotational direction, and when the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a moves in the second linear direction (e.g. to the right as shown in FIG. 4C), the first drive wheel 106 a and the second drive wheel 106 b rotate in the second rotational direction. Due to the configuration of the one-way bearings 108 a, 108 b and the output wheels 120 a, 120 b, the first output shaft 104 a always rotates in the same direction (e.g. counterclockwise), and the second output shaft always rotates in the second direction (e.g. clockwise). A lever connector 114 a can be attached to the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a to which a lever arm 112 a can be attached to facilitate movement of the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a.

For example, the first output wheel 120 a may be mounted on the first output shaft 104 a to rotate with the first output shaft 104 a. The first drive wheel 106 a may be mounted on the first output shaft 104 a with a one-way bearing 108 a such that rotation of the first drive wheel 106 a in the first rotational direction causes the first output shaft 104 a to rotate in the first rotational direction, but rotation of the first drive wheel 106 a in the second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction results in the first drive wheel 106 a freewheeling due to the orientation of the first one-way bearing 108 a, thereby not causing the first output shaft 104 a to rotate in the second rotational direction.

Similarly, the second output wheel 120 b may be mounted on the second output shaft 104 b to rotate with the second output shaft 104 b. The second drive wheel 106 b may be mounted on the second output shaft 104 b with a second one-way bearing 108 b such that rotation of the second drive wheel 106 b in the second rotational direction causes the second output shaft 104 b to rotate in the second rotational direction, but rotation of the second drive wheel 106 b in the first rotational direction results in the second drive wheel 106 b to freewheeling due to the orientation of the second one-way bearing 108 b, and not cause the second output shaft 104 b to rotate in the first rotational direction.

A transmission link 122 operatively connects the first output wheel 120 a to the second output wheel 120 b so that the first output wheel 120 a and the second output wheel 120 b simultaneously rotate in opposite rotational directions. In this example, the transmission link 122 is a twisted belt, but other types of transmission links 122 can be used, such as gears. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 4B, rotation of the first drive wheel 106 a in the first rotational direction caused by the linear movement of the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a in a first direction (e.g. to the left) causes rotation of the first output shaft 104 a and the first output wheel 120 a in the first rotational direction. Rotation of the first output wheel 120 a in the first direction causes rotation of the second output wheel 120 b in the second rotational direction. Since the second output wheel 120 b rotates with the second output shaft 104 b, the second output shaft 104 b also rotates in the second rotational direction. Simultaneously, movement of the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a in the first direction causes rotation of the second drive wheel 106 b in the first rotational direction. However, since the second drive wheel 106 b freewheels in the first rotational direction, the second output shaft 104 b is allowed to rotate in the second rotational direction.

Similarly, as shown in FIG. 4C, rotation of the second drive wheel 106 b in the second rotational direction, caused by movement of the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a in a second linear direction opposite the first linear direction (e.g. to the right), causes rotation of the second output shaft 104 b in the second rotational direction due to the orientation of the second one-way bearing 108 b. Rotation of the second output shaft 104 b in the second rotational direction causes the second output wheel 120 b to rotate in the second rotational direction. Due to the arrangement of the transmission link 122, rotation of the second output wheel 120 b in the second rotational direction causes rotation of the first output wheel 120 a in the first rotational direction. Since the first output wheel 120 a rotates with the first output shaft 104 a, rotation of the first output wheel 120 a in the first rotational direction causes rotation of the first output shaft 104 a in the first rotational direction. In addition, movement of the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a in the second linear direction causes rotation of the first drive wheel 106 a in the second rotational direction. Since the first drive wheel 106 a freewheels in the second rotational direction, the first output shaft 104 a is still allowed to rotate in the first rotational direction. Therefore, regardless of which linear direction the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a is moving, the first output shaft 104 a always rotates in the first rotational direction, and the second output shaft 104 b always rotates in the second rotational direction.

This can be accomplished when the transmission link 122 is operatively connected to the first output wheel 120 a and the second output wheel 120 b in a FIG. 8 configuration, such that rotation of the second output wheel 120 b in the second rotational direction causes the first output wheel 120 a to rotate in the first rotational direction, and vice versa. In other words, rotation of the first output wheel 120 a in one rotational direction causes the second output wheel 120 b to rotate in the opposite rotational direction. This can also be accomplished by connecting the first output wheel 120 a and the second output wheel 120 b with gears.

FIGS. 5A-5D show another embodiment of the linear powered input device 100 in which gears are used as the transmission link 122. Like each of the embodiments, the linear powered input device 100 comprises a first drive wheel 106 a having a first one-way bearing 108 a mounted on a first output shaft 104 a, the first output shaft 104 a mounted on a frame 102. The first drive wheel 106 a has a first diameter and rotates within a first plane of rotation. This embodiment further comprises a second drive wheel 106 b having a second one-way bearing 108 b mounted on a second output shaft 104 b, the second output shaft 104 b mounted on the frame 102. The second drive wheel 106 b has a second diameter and is rotatable in the first plane of rotation. The second output shaft 104 b may be parallel to and set apart from the first output shaft 104 a. The power transmission mechanism 110 is operatively connected to the first drive wheel 106 a and the second drive wheel 106 b such that when a first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a moves in the first linear direction (e.g. downwardly), the first drive wheel 106 a and the first output shaft 104 a rotate in the first rotational direction (e.g. counterclockwise). Since the power transmission mechanism 110 is also connected to the second drive wheel 106 b, the second drive wheel 106 b also rotates in the first rotational direction. The second one-way bearing 108 b, however, is oriented to allow the second drive wheel 106 b to freewheel in the first rotational direction so that the second output shaft 104 b does not rotate with the second drive wheel 106 b in the second rotational direction.

Conversely, as shown in FIG. 5B, when a second portion of the first power transmission mechanism 110 b, opposite the first portion of the first power transmission mechanism 110 a, moves in the first linear direction (e.g. downwardly), the second drive wheel 106 b rotates in the second rotational direction. In this rotational direction, the second one-way bearing 108 b engages the second output shaft 104 b and the second output shaft 104 b rotates in the second rotational direction. Since the power transmission mechanism 110 is still connected to the first drive wheel 106 a, the first drive wheel also rotates in the second rotational direction. However, due to the orientation of the first one-way bearing 108 a, the first drive wheel 106 a freewheels in this direction and does not engage the first output shaft 104 a, so the first output shaft 104 a does not rotate in the second rotational direction with the first drive wheel 106 a.

With the use of toothed output wheels 120 a, 120 b, the second drive wheel 106 b can be operatively connected to the first output shaft 104 a to cause the first output shaft to rotate in the first rotational direction. Similarly, the first drive wheel 106 a can be operatively connected to the second output shaft 104 b to cause the second output shaft 104 b to rotate in the second rotational direction. For example, the first output wheel 120 a may be mounted on the first output shaft 104 a to rotate with the first output shaft 104 a. Similarly, a second output wheel 120 b may be mounted on the second output shaft 104 b to rotate with the second output shaft 104 b. Furthermore, since the first output wheel 120 a and the second output wheel 120 b are toothed gears, the first output wheel 120 a and the second output wheel 120 b can be operatively connected to each other, directly, without the need of a chain, belt, band, or the like, such that rotation of the first output wheel 120 a in the first rotational direction causes rotation of the second output wheel 120 b in the second rotational direction, and rotation of the second output wheel 120 b in the second rotational direction causes rotation of the first output wheel 120 a in the first rotational direction. For example, the first and second output wheels 120 a, 120 b may be in the same plane. In some embodiments, if the first and second output wheels 120 a, 120 b need to be spaced apart for structural reasons, shift gears can be inserted between the first and second output wheels 120 a, 120 b to operatively connect the first and second output wheels 120 a, 120 b as will be discussed later.

Therefore, in the example shown in FIGS. 5A-5D, downward linear movement of the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a causes the first drive wheel 106 a to rotate in the first rotational direction (e.g. counterclockwise). Due to the orientation of the first one-way bearing 108 a, the first drive wheel 106 a engages the first output shaft 104 a and causes the first output shaft 104 a to rotate in the first rotational direction. Since the first output wheel 120 a rotates with the first output shaft 104 a, the first output wheel 120 a also rotates in the first rotational direction. Rotation of the first output wheel 120 a causes the second output wheel 120 b to rotate in the second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction. Since the second output wheel 120 b rotates with the second output shaft 104 b, the second output shaft 104 b rotates in the second rotational direction. Since the second drive wheel 106 b is connected to the power transmission mechanism 110, the second drive wheel 106 b also rotates in the first rotational direction. Due to the orientation of the second one-way bearing 108 b, however, rotation of the second drive wheel 106 b in the first rotational direction does not interfere with the rotation of the second output shaft 104 b in the second rotational direction due to its freewheeling action in this direction.

Similarly, downward linear movement of the second portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 b causes the second drive wheel 106 b to rotate in the second rotational direction (e.g. clockwise). Due to the orientation of the second one-way bearing 108 b, the second drive wheel 106 b engages the second output shaft 104 b and causes the second output shaft 104 b to rotate in the second rotational direction. Since the second output wheel 120 b rotates with the second output shaft 104 b, the second output wheel 120 b also rotates in the second rotational direction. Rotation of the second output wheel 120 b causes the first output wheel 120 a to rotate in the first rotational direction opposite the second rotational direction. Since the first output wheel 120 a rotates with the first output shaft 104 a, the first output shaft 104 a rotates in the first rotational direction with the first output wheel 120 a. Since the first drive wheel 106 a is connected to the power transmission mechanism 110, the first drive wheel 106 a also rotates in the second rotational direction. Due to the orientation of the first one-way bearing 108 a, however, rotation of the first drive wheel 106 a in the second rotational direction does not interfere with the rotation of the first output shaft 104 a in the first rotational direction. Therefore, movement of either portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a, 110 b in either linear direction always causes the first output shaft 104 a to rotate in the first rotational direction and the second output shaft 104 b to rotate in the second rotational direction.

In some embodiments, to lengthen the power transmission mechanism 110 so as to have a first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a and a second portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 b accessible on opposing sides so that both can undergo a linear motion, the linear powered input device 100 may further comprise a first and second idler wheel 130 a, 130 b aligned with and rotatable in the same plane of rotation as the first and second drive wheels 106 a, 106 b, respectively. This arrangement allows the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a to follow a first vertical path in between the first drive wheel 106 a and the first idler wheel 130 a, and the second portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 b to follow a second vertical path in between the second drive wheel 106 b and the second idler wheel 130 b. In this example, since the power transmission mechanism 110 is a chain, the idler wheels 130 a, 130 b are sprockets and an infinite or continuous loop is created. Lever connectors 114 a, 114 b can be attached to the first and second portions of the power transmission mechanism 110 a, 110 b to which lever arms 112 a, 112 b can be attached, respectively, to facilitate movement of the first and second portions of the power transmission mechanism 110 a, 110 b.

With this foundational setup, multiple variations can arise for a variety of different practical implementations. For example, in some embodiments, the linear powered input device 100 may further comprise a third output shaft 104 c rotatably attached to the frame 102; a third output wheel 120 c mounted on the third output shaft 104 c; and a first shift gear 124 a mounted on a first axle 126 a operatively connected to the frame 102, wherein the first shift gear 124 a is configured to adopt an engaged configuration in which the first shift gear 124 a is engaged with one of the first or second drive wheels 106 a, 106 b (e.g. via the output wheels 120 a, 120 b), and the third output wheel 120 c, and a disengaged configuration in which the first shift gear 124 a is disengaged from the each of the first and second drive wheels 106 a, 106 b and, optionally, disengaged from the third output wheel 120 c. The third output wheel 120 c may rotate within the plane of rotation of the first and second drive wheels 106 a, 106 b or, preferably, the plane of rotation of the first and second output wheels 120 a, 120 b. The first shift gear 124 a can engage or disengage from the drive wheels 106 a, 106 b (or output wheels 120 a, 120 b) and the third output wheel 120 c by shifting in and out of the plane of rotation in which the first and second drive wheels 106 a, 106 b and the third output wheel 120 c rotate. In the preferred embodiment, the first shift gear 124 a may directly engage and disengage from the first and second output wheels 120 a, 120 b.

In some embodiments, the first shift gear 124 a can engage or disengage from the drive wheels 106 a, 106 b by shifting within the plane of rotation of the drive wheels 106 a, 106 b, or the first and second output wheels 120 a, 120 b, to a position in which the first shift gear 124 a is or is not affected by any of the drive wheels 106 a, 106 b, first and second output wheels 120 a, 120 b, and/or the third output wheel 120 c.

For example, as shown in FIGS. 5A-5B, the first shift gear 124 a may be slidably mounted on the first axle 126 a to slide along the first axle 126 a into and out of the plane of rotation of the output wheels 120 a, 120 b. When the first shift gear 124 a slides along the first axle 126 a into the plane of rotation of the first output wheel 120 a, the first shift gear 124 a is in the engaged configuration with the first output wheel 120 a and the third output wheel 120 c as shown in FIG. 5A. When the first shift gear 124 a is slid out of the plane of rotation of the first output wheel 120 a, it is in the disengaged configuration as it would not contact the first output wheel 120 a or the third output wheel 120 c as shown in FIG. 5C.

In some embodiments, the linear powered input device 100 may utilize two shift gears. For example, a second shift gear 124 b may be slidably mounted on a second axle 126 b mounted on the frame 102 to slide in and out of the plane of rotation of the second output wheel 120 b and the third output wheel 120 c. The user can then toggle between the first and second shift gears 124 a, 124 b to determine which direction the third output wheel 120 c, and therefore, the third output shaft 104 c will rotate. For example, the first shift gear 124 a may be slidably mounted on the first axle 126 a to slide into the plane of rotation of the first ouput wheel 120 a to engage the first output wheel 120 a and the third output wheel 120 c while the second shift gear 124 b is slid out of the plane of rotation of the second output wheel 120 b so as to be disengaged from the second output wheel 120 b and the third output wheel 120 c as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B. This will cause the third output wheel 120 c and the third output shaft 104 c to rotate in the same direction as the first output wheel 120 a.

The first shift gear 124 a can then be slid out of the plane of rotation of the first output wheel 120 a to disengage from the first output wheel 120 a and the third output wheel 120 c, and the second shift gear 124 b, which is slidably mounted on the second axle 126 b, can be slid into the plane of rotation of the second output wheel 120 b to engage the second output wheel 120 b and the third output wheel 120 c to cause the third output wheel 120 c and the third output shaft 104 c to rotate in the same direction as the second output wheel 120 b as shown in FIGS. 5C and 5D. To disengage the second shift gear 124 b from the second output wheel 120 b, the second shift gear 124 b may be slid out of the plane of rotation of the second output wheel 120 b so that the second shift gear 124 b can no longer affect the second output wheel 120 b and the third output wheel 120 c. Therefore, depending on which shift gear 124 a, 124 b the third output wheel 120 c is connected to, the third output wheel 120 c will constantly rotate in the first rotational direction or the second rotational direction whether the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a moves in the first and second linear direction.

The first shift gear 124 a may be directly connectable to the first output wheel 120 a and the third output wheel 120 c, and the second shift gear 124 b may be directly connectable to the second output wheel 120 b and the third output wheel 120 c, or the connections may be indirect through a series of gears.

In another example, as shown in FIGS. 6A-6C, the frame 102 may define a slot 128, wherein the first axle 126 a is mounted in the slot 128 of the frame 102 and capable of sliding into a first engaged configuration in which the first shift gear 124 a is engaged with the first output wheel 120 a and the third output wheel 120 c causing the third output wheel 120 c to rotate in the same rotational direction as the first output wheel 120 a as shown in FIG. 6A. The first axle 126 a is capable of sliding within the slot 128 into a second engaged configuration in which the first shift gear 124 a is engaged with the second output wheel 120 b and the third output wheel 120 c causing the third output wheel 120 c to rotate in the same rotational direction as the second output wheel 120 b as shown in FIG. 6B. The first axle 126 a is also capable of sliding within the slot 128 into a disengaged configuration in which the first shift gear 124 a is disengaged from the first and second output wheels 120 a, 120 b, for example by residing in between the first and second output wheels 120 a, 120 b as shown in FIG. 6C.

The types of application the linear powered input device 100 can be used for will determine the type of frame 102 required. In general, the frame 102 provides a foundation upon which the other components are attached.

As shown in FIGS. 7A-7C, the concepts of the linear powered input device 100 can be implemented in a crank-type machine in which two lever arms 112 a, 112 b are used to drive the power transmission mechanism 110. This kind of device can be used in many different types of applications to drive a load 10, which can produce work or generate energy. In the embodiment shown, for exemplary purposes, the output shaft 104 a drives a flywheel 10, which can be used as an exercise device.

The frame 102 may comprise a base 150 to elevate the various components of the present invention. The frame 102 may further comprise one or more posts 152, 154, 156. The output shaft 104 a, the drive wheel 106 a, the one-way bearing 108 a, the power transmission mechanism 110, and the levers 112 a, 112 b, may all be attached to at least one of the posts 152, 154, 156. The first drive wheel 106 a has a first diameter and rotates in a first plane of rotation.

In this embodiment, the linear powered input device 100, further comprises a second drive wheel 106 b having a second one-way bearing 108 b. The second drive wheel 106 b defines a second plane of rotation parallel to and set apart from the first plane of rotation, and has a second diameter. The second drive wheel 106 b may be arranged parallel to the first drive wheel 106 a and mounted on the output shaft 104 a. The power transmission mechanism 110 is operatively connected to the first and second drive wheels 106 a, 106 b such that when a first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a moves in the first linear direction (e.g. forcing the first lever arm 112 a downward), the first drive wheel 106 a moves in the first rotational direction (e.g. counterclockwise). Due to the orientation of the first one-way bearing 108 a, the first drive wheel 106 a engages the first output shaft 104 a causing the first output shaft 104 a to rotate in the first rotational direction. Since the first output shaft 104 a is operatively connected to the flywheel 10, the flywheel 10 also rotates in the first rotational direction.

The power transmission mechanism 110 may also be connected to the second drive wheel 106 b in a manner that causes the second drive wheel 106 b to rotate in the second rotational direction (e.g. clockwise) opposite the first rotational direction, when the first portion of the first power transmission mechanism 110 a is moved in the first linear direction. Due to the orientation of the second one-way bearing 108 b, the second drive wheel 106 b is allowed to freewheel and does not cause the first output shaft 104 a to rotate with the second drive wheel 106 b. Therefore, the first output shaft 104 a continues to rotate in the first rotational direction.

When a second portion of the first power transmission mechanism 110 b (located parallel and adjacent to the first portion of the first power transmission mechanism 110 a) moves in the first linear direction (e.g. forcing the second lever arm 112 b downward), the second drive wheel 106 b moves in the first rotational direction. Due to the orientation of the second one-way bearing 108 b, the second drive wheel 106 b engages the first output shaft 104 a causing the first output shaft 104 a to rotate in the first rotational direction. The arrangement of the power transmission mechanism 110 about the first and second drive wheels 106 a, 106 b causes the first drive wheel 106 a to rotate in the second rotational direction when the second portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 b moves in the first linear direction and the second drive wheel 106 b rotates in the first rotational direction. Due to the orientation of the first one-way bearing 108 a, however, the first drive wheel 106 a freewheels and does not engage the first output shaft 104 a, thereby allowing the first output shaft 104 a to, again, rotate in the first rotational direction. Therefore, regardless of which lever arm 112 a, 112 b is moving in the first linear direction, the first output shaft 104 a always rotates in the first rotational direction.

In some embodiments, in order to achieve the functions described above, the linear powered input device 100 may comprise a first idler wheel 130 a rotatably mounted on the frame 102. The first idler wheel 130 a defines a third plane of rotation and has a third diameter. The third plane of rotation may be perpendicular to the first and second planes of rotation and the first idler wheel 130 a may be positioned substantially in between the first and second planes of rotation. Preferably, the first idler wheel 130 a is positioned below the two drive wheels 106 a, 106 b.

A second idler wheel 130 b may be mounted on the frame 102. The second idler wheel 130 b defines a fourth plane of rotation and has a fourth diameter. The fourth plane of rotation may be parallel to the third plane of rotation and perpendicular to the first and second planes of rotation. The second idler wheel 130 b is positioned substantially in between the first and second planes of rotation. Preferably, the first idler wheel 130 a and the second idler wheel 130 b are spaced apart by a first distance substantially equivalent to the first and second diameters of the first and second drive wheels 106 a, 106 b. The first drive wheel 106 a and the second drive wheel 106 b are spaced apart by a second distance substantially equivalent to the third and fourth diameters of the first and second idler wheels 130 a, 130 b.

In the preferred embodiment, the power transmission mechanism 110 forms a continuous loop by wrapping around the top of the first drive wheel 106 a, then descending down towards the first idler wheel 130 a below the first drive wheel 106 a while twisting 90 degrees (this segment is referred to as the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 a). Due to the 90 degree twist, the power transmission mechanism 110 can then wrap under the first idler wheel 130 a (which is oriented perpendicularly to the first drive wheel 106 a) and ascend up towards the second drive wheel 106 b while twisting 90 degrees, but in the reverse direction compared to the first 90 degree twist (this segment is referred to as the second portion of the power transmission mechanism 110 b). Due to the second 90 degree twist, the power transmission mechanism 110 can then wrap over the top of the second drive wheel 106 b (which was oriented perpendicularly to the first idler wheel 130 a) and descend towards the second idler wheel 130 b while twisting 90 degrees in the first direction (this segment is referred to as the third portion of the power transmission mechanism). Due to the third 90 degree twist, the power transmission mechanism 110 is able to wrap underneath the second idler wheel 130 b (which is oriented perpendicularly to the second drive wheel 106 b) and ascend back towards the first drive wheel 106 a (this segment is referred to as the fourth portion of the power transmission mechanism) while twisting 90 degrees in the reverse direction to connect back at the top of the first drive wheel 106 a, thereby creating a continuous loop. In the preferred embodiment, the drive wheels 106 a, 106 b and the idler wheels 130 a, 130 b are sprockets and the power transmission mechanism 110 is a chain.

A first lever arm 112 a defined by a first elongated body defines a first longitudinal axis 170 a and has a first pivoting end 172 a and a first free end 174 a opposite the first pivoting end 172 a. The first pivoting end 172 a comprises a first pivoting slot 176 a and is pivotably connected to the frame 102 (for example, at post 152) at the first pivoting slot 176 a, such that the first lever arm 112 a can pivot about a pivoting axis 178 and can move bi-directionally along the first longitudinal axis 170 a via the first pivoting slot 176 a. The first free end 174 a may comprise a first support 179 a to improve the leverage at the first free end 174 a.

A second lever arm 112 b defined by a second elongated body defines a second longitudinal axis 170 b and has a second pivoting end 172 b and a second free end 174 b opposite the second pivoting end 172 b. The second pivoting end 172 b comprises a second pivoting slot 176 b and is pivotably connected to the frame 102 (for example, at post 152) at the second pivoting slot 176 b such that the second lever arm 112 b can pivot about the pivoting axis 178 and move bi-directionally along the second longitudinal axis 170 b via the second pivoting slot 176 b. The second free end 174 b comprises a second support 179 b. Since the first and second lever arms 112 a, 112 b are able to move in the direction of their respective longitudinal axes 170 a, 170 b during the pivoting action at their respective pivoting ends 172 a, 172 b, the free ends 174 a, 174 b can move along a linear pathway rather than the typical arcuate pathway that typical cranks arms traverse. Being able to move in a linear downward and upward pathway allows the user to maximize the amount of force applied to the levers since none of the force is being applied in a direction perpendicular to the upward and downward directions.

Preferably, the first drive wheel 106 a, the second drive wheel 106 b, the first idler wheel 130 a, the second idler wheel 130 b, and the first power transmission mechanism 110 are substantially in between the first lever arm 112 a and the second lever 112 b.

To further facilitate the linear directional movement of the first and second ends 174 a, 174 b of the lever arms 112 a, 112 b, one of the posts 156 a may function as a linear guide rail. The linear guide rail has a first lateral side 180 a defining a first guide slot 182 a, and a second lateral side 180 b opposite the first lateral side 180 a, the second lateral slide 180 b defining a second guide slot 182 b. In some embodiments, the linear guide rail may be comprised of two posts 156 a, 156 b with the first guide slot 182 a on the first post 156 a, and the second guide slot 182 b on the second post 156 b.

A first sliding guide 184 a may be slidably mounted in the first guide slot 182 a, the first sliding guide 184 a operatively connected to the first lever 112 a at a first connection point 186 a in between the first free end 174 a and the first pivoting end 172 a. A second sliding guide 184 b may be slidably mounted in the second guide slot 182 b, the second sliding guide 184 b operatively connected to the second lever 112 b at a second connection point 186 b in between the second free end 174 b and the second pivoting end 172 b. Therefore, from the first connection point 186 a to the first free end 174 a, the first lever arm 112 a cannot move in the horizontal direction. Rather any horizontal movement of the first lever arm 112 a in the direction of the first longitudinal axis 170 a occurs at the first pivoting end 172 a due to the first pivoting slot 176 a. Similarly, from the second connection point 186 b to the second free end 174 b, the second lever arm 112 b cannot move in the horizontal direction. Rather any horizontal movement of the second lever arm 112 b in the direction of the second longitudinal axis 170 b occurs at the second pivoting end 172 b due to the second pivoting slot 176 b.

Furthermore, the first and second levers 112 a, 112 b may be fixed to the first power transmission mechanism 110 at lever connectors 114 a, 114 b, respectively, on opposite sides at appropriate locations along the first portion and the second portion of the first power transmission mechanism 110 a, 110 b, respectively, such that the first free end 174 a and the second free end 174 b move in a linear motion and in opposite directions. In other words, when the first free end 174 a moves up, the second free end 174 b moves down and vice versa as shown in FIGS. 7B and 7C.

In some embodiments, the sliding guide 184 a may be connected at the lever connectors 114 a for 100% force transfer, but can be attached to the lever arm 112 a forward or in back of that point with little effect. The preferred version of the sliding guide 184 a is a 1 inch square slotted steel pipe with a bolt attaching a square sized slide inside the square pipe to the lever. This eliminates any side to side motion and also ensures the 100% pure linear input.

When the linear powered input device 100 is used to perform work or generate energy, rather than exercise, it is desirable to ease the efforts of the user. The present invention eases the efforts of the user to impart force on a load by first converting all motion of the lever arms 112 a, 112 b at the free ends 174 a, 174 b (where the actual force by the user is applied) into an entirely linear motion to minimize wasted energy. Effort by the user can further be economized by changing the length of the lever arms 112 a, 112 b, adding gears, changing the size of the gears, tightening or loosening the power transmission mechanism, adding lever arms, and the like.

In some embodiments as shown in FIGS. 8A-8C, additional lever arms 112 c, 112 d can be added so that a single user can use both arms and both legs or any combination thereof to impart force on the output shaft 104 a. By way of example only, in some embodiments, the linear powered input device 100 may comprise a first drive wheel 106 a having a first one-way bearing 108 a mounted on a first output shaft 104 a mounted on a frame 102. The first drive wheel 106 a defines a first plane of rotation. A first idler wheel 130 a is located below the first drive wheel 106 a, preferably within the first plane of rotation. A first power transmission mechanism 110 operatively connects the first drive wheel 106 a to first idler wheel 130 a such that the first drive wheel 106 a and the first idler wheel 130 a rotate in the same rotational direction. The first power transmission mechanism 110 may be operatively connected to the first lever arm 112 a via a first lever connector 114 a such that movement of the first lever arm 112 a in a first linear direction (e.g. downward movement) causes movement of the first power transmission mechanism 110, which in turn causes the first drive wheel 106 a, the first idler wheel 130 a, and the output shaft 104 a to rotate in a first rotational direction.

On the opposite side of the frame 102, the device 100 comprises a second drive wheel 106 b having a second one-way bearing 108 b, the second drive wheel 106 b defining a second plane of rotation and having a second diameter, the second drive wheel 106 b arranged parallel to and set apart from the first drive wheel 106 a, and operatively connected to the output shaft 104 a to rotate the output shaft 104 a in the first rotational direction. A second idler wheel 130 b is located below the second drive wheel 106 b, and preferably within the second plane of rotation. A second power transmission mechanism 111 operatively connects the second drive wheel 106 b to the second idler wheel 130 b such that a first portion of the second power transmission mechanism 111 a moving in the first linear direction (e.g. downward) causes the second drive wheel 106 b, the second idler wheel 130 b, and the output shaft 104 a to rotate in the first rotational direction. A second lever arm 112 b may be connected to the first portion of the power transmission mechanism 111 a via a second lever connector 114 b.

The first idler wheel 130 a and the second idler wheel 130 b may be operatively connected to each other by a first shift gear 124 a and a second shift gear 124 b such that rotation of the first idler wheel 130 a in a first rotational direction causes rotation of the second idler wheel 130 b in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction; and rotation of the second idler wheel 130 b in a first rotational direction causes rotation of the first idler wheel 130 a in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction. Since the idler wheels 130 a, 130 b are connected to each other and each idler wheel 130 a, 130 b is connected to its respective power transmission mechanisms 110, 111, movement of one power transmission mechanism 110 or 111 causes movement in the other power transmission mechanism 111 or 110. By way of example, if the first portion of the first power transmission mechanism 110 a were to move in the first linear direction (e.g. downward), then the first portion of the second power transmission mechanism 111 a would move in the second linear direction (e.g. upward), and vice versa.

Due to the orientations of the one-way bearings 108 a, 108 b, however, the output shaft 104 a continues to rotate in the same rotational direction regardless of which direction the lever arms 112 a, 112 b are moving. For example, when the first portion of the first power transmission mechanism 110 a moves in the first linear direction, the first drive wheel 106 a rotates in the first rotational direction, which engages the first one-way bearing 108 a, which in turn rotates the output shaft 104 a in the first rotational direction. Simultaneously, the first power transmission mechanism 110 rotates the first idler wheel 130 a in the first rotational direction, which causes the second idler wheel 130 b to rotate in the second rotational direction. Rotation of the second idler wheel 130 b in the second rotational direction causes the first portion of the second power transmission mechanism 111 a to move in the second linear direction (e.g. upward), which causes the second drive wheel 106 b to rotate in the second rotational direction. This does not cause the output shaft 104 a to rotate in the second rotational direction due to the second one-way bearing 108 b, which allows the second drive wheel 106 b to freewheel in the second rotational direction.

Similarly, when the first portion of the second power transmission mechanism 111 a moves in the first linear direction, the second drive wheel 106 b rotates in the first rotational direction, which engages the second one-way bearing 108 b, which in turn rotates the output shaft 104 a in the first rotational direction. Simultaneously, the second power transmission mechanism 111 rotates the second idler wheel 130 b in the first rotational direction, which causes the first idler wheel 130 a to rotate in the second rotational direction. Rotation of the first idler wheel 130 a in the second rotational direction causes the first portion of the first power transmission mechanism 110 a to move in the second linear direction (e.g. upward), which causes the first drive wheel 106 a to rotate in the second rotational direction. This does not cause the output shaft 104 a to move in the second rotational direction due to the first one-way bearing 108 a, which allows the first drive wheel 106 a to freewheel in the second rotational direction.

In order to incorporate other limbs for use with the linear powered input device 100, the linear powered input device 100 may further comprise a third drive wheel 106 c having a third one-way bearing 108 c, the third drive wheel 106 c operatively connected to the output shaft 104 a; a third power transmission mechanism 113 operatively connected to the third drive wheel 106 c, wherein the third power transmission mechanism 113 is oriented perpendicularly relative to the first power transmission mechanism 110, such that movement of a first portion of the third power transmission mechanism 113 a in a third linear direction perpendicular to the first linear direction (e.g. horizontal) causes rotation of the output shaft 104 a in the first rotational direction.

A fourth drive wheel 106 d having a fourth one-way bearing 108 d may be mounted on a second output shaft 104 b so that bidirectional movement of the third power transmission mechanism 113 can cause the first output shaft 104 a to rotate in the first rotational direction. For example, the third drive wheel 106 c may be operatively connected to a first output wheel 120 a and the fourth drive wheel 106 d may be operatively connected to a second output wheel 120 b. In the preferred embodiment, as shown best in FIG. 8B, the third drive wheel 106 c and the fourth drive wheel 106 d may be operatively connected by two additional shift gears 124 c, 124 d. Other types of transmission links as discussed in this application can be used, such as belts, chains, and bands. The third shift gear 124 c may be directly connected to the first output wheel 120 a and the fourth shift gear 124 d. The fourth shift gear 124 d may be directly connected to the second output wheel 120 b and the third shift gear 124 c. Therefore, the third and fourth shift gears 124 c, 124 d may be directly connected to each other in between the first and second output wheels 120 a, 120 b.

The fourth one-way bearing 108 d may be oriented such that rotation of the fourth drive wheel 106 d in the second rotational direction causes the second output shaft 104 b to rotate in the second rotational direction and rotation of the fourth drive wheel 106 d in the first rotational direction allows the fourth drive wheel 106 d to freewheel and not rotate the second output shaft 104 b in the first rotational direction.

In this configuration, when the first portion of the third power transmission mechanism 113 a is moved in the fourth linear direction, the third drive wheel 106 c freewheels and has no effect on the first output shaft 104 a. Simultaneously, the fourth drive wheel 106 d engages the second output shaft 104 b and rotates the second output shaft 104 b in the second rotational direction, which causes the second output wheel 120 b to rotate in the second rotational direction. Since the second output wheel 120 b is directly connected to the fourth shift gear 124 d, the fourth shift gear 124 d rotates in the first rotational direction. Since the fourth shift gear 124 d is directly connected to the third shift gear 124 c, the third shift gear 124 c rotates in the second rotational direction. Since the third shift gear 124 c is directly connected to the first output wheel 120 a, the first output wheel 120 a rotates in the first direction. Since the first output wheel 120 a rotates with the first output shaft 104 a, the first output shaft 104 a rotates in the first rotational direction.

Conversely, when the first portion of the third power transmission mechanism 113 a moves in the third linear direction, the third drive wheel 106 c engages the first output shaft 104 a and the third drive wheel 106 c and the first output shaft 104 a rotate in the first rotational direction. Rotation of the first output shaft 104 a in the first rotational direction causes the first output wheel 120 a to rotate in the first rotational direction. Since the first output wheel 120 a is directly connected to the third shift gear 124 c, the third shift gear 124 c rotates in the second rotational direction. Since the third shift gear 124 c is directly connected to the fourth shift gear 124 d, the fourth shift gear 124 d rotates in the first rotational direction. Since the fourth shift gear 124 d is directly connected to the second output wheel 120 b, the second output wheel 120 b rotates in the second rotational direction. Since the second output wheel 120 b rotates with the second output shaft 104 b, the second output shaft 104 b rotates in the second rotational direction. A load can be connected to the second output shaft 104 b to perform work. Due to the third power transmission mechanism 113 moving in the third linear direction, the fourth drive wheel 106 d freewheels in the first rotational direction and does not affect the rotation of the second output shaft 104 b. Therefore, whether the first portion of the third power transmission 113 a is moving in the third linear direction or the fourth linear direction, the first output shaft 104 a always rotates in the same direction (e.g the first rotational direction). Similarly, whether the first portion of the third power transmission mechanism 113 a is moving in the third linear direction or the fourth linear direction, the second output shaft 104 b always rotates in the same direction (e.g. the second rotational direction). Therefore, a third lever arm 112 c can be attached to the first portion of the third power transmission mechanism 113 a via a third level connector 114 c to effectuate the bidirectional linear movement of the first portion of the third power transmission mechanism 113 a. The distance of the linear movement can be modified by changing the size of the third and fourth shift gears 124 c, 124 d. Alternatively, additional shift gears can be inserted in between the first and second output wheels 120 a, 120 b. Preferably, the number of additional shift gears should be an even number so that the first output shaft 104 a and the second output shaft 104 b rotate in opposite directions.

The configuration of the third drive wheel 106 c and the fourth drive wheel 106 d can be repeated with a fifth drive wheel 106 e and a sixth drive wheel 106 f on the opposite side of the frame 102. For example, the linear powered input device 100 may further comprise a fifth drive wheel 106 e having a fifth one-way bearing 108 e, the fifth drive wheel 106 e operatively connected to the first output shaft 104 a. A fourth power transmission mechanism 115 may be operatively connected to the fifth drive wheel 106 e, wherein the fourth power transmission mechanism 115 is perpendicularly oriented relative to the first power transmission mechanism 110, such that movement of a first portion of the fourth power transmission mechanism 115 a in the third linear direction causes rotation of the first output shaft 104 a in the first rotational direction and movement of the first portion of the fourth power transmission mechanism 115 a in the fourth linear direction allows the fifth drive wheel 106 e to freewheel and not affect the rotation of the first output shaft 104 a.

A sixth drive wheel 106 f having a sixth one-way bearing 108 f mounted on a third output shaft 104 c may be provided in the same plane of rotation as the fifth drive wheel 106 e. The sixth drive wheel 106 f may be operatively connected to the fourth power transmission mechanism 115 such that movement of the first portion of the fourth power transmission mechanism 115 a in the fourth linear direction opposite the third linear direction causes rotation of the first output shaft 104 a in the first rotational direction.

For example, the sixth one-way bearing 108 f may be oriented such that rotation of the sixth drive wheel 106 f in the second rotational direction causes the third output shaft 104 c to rotate in the second rotational direction and rotation of the sixth drive wheel 106 f in the first rotational direction allows the sixth drive wheel 106 f to freewheel and not rotate the third output shaft 104 c in the first rotational direction.

The first output shaft 104 a may be operatively connected to a third output wheel 120 c so as to rotate together. The third output shaft 104 c may be operatively connected to a fourth output wheel 120 d so as to rotate together. The third and fourth output wheels 120 c, 120 d may be directly connected to each other, or indirectly connected to each other via fifth and sixth shift gears 124 e, 124 f.

In this configuration, when the first portion of the fourth power transmission mechanism 115 a moves in the third linear direction, the fifth drive wheel 106 e engages the first output shaft 104 a and the fifth drive wheel 106 e and the first output shaft 104 a rotate in the first rotational direction. Rotation of the first output shaft 104 a in the first rotational direction causes the third output wheel 120 c to rotate in the first rotational direction. The third output wheel 120 c is directly connected to the fifth shift gear 124 e, which causes the fifth shift gear 124 e to rotate in the second rotational direction. Since the fifth shift gear 124 e is directly connected to the sixth shift gear 124 f, the sixth shift gear 124 f rotates in the first rotational direction. Since the sixth shift gear 124 f is directly connected to the fourth output wheel 120 d, the fourth output wheel 120 d rotates in the second rotational direction. This causes the third output shaft 104 c to rotate in the second rotational direction. If the third output shaft 104 c is connected to a load 10, then work can be performed. Due to the first portion of the fourth power transmission mechanism 115 a moving in the third linear direction, the sixth drive wheel 106 f freewheels in the first rotational direction and does not affect the third output shaft 104 c.

Conversely, when the first portion of the fourth power transmission mechanism 115 a is moved in the fourth linear direction, the fifth drive wheel 106 e freewheels and has no effect on the first output shaft 104 a. Simultaneously, the sixth drive wheel 106 f engages the third output shaft 104 c and rotates the third output shaft 104 c in the second rotational direction, which causes the fourth output wheel 120 d to rotate in the second rotational direction. Since the fourth output wheel 120 d is directly connected to the sixth shift gear 124 f, the sixth shift gear 124 f rotates in the first rotational direction. Since the sixth shift gear 124 f is directly connected to the fifth shift gear 124 e, the fifth shift gear 124 e rotates in the second rotational direction. Since the fifth shift gear 124 e is directly connected to the third output wheel 120 c, the third output wheel rotates in the first rotational direction. Since the third output wheel 120 c rotates with the first output shaft 104 a, the first output shaft 104 a rotates in the first rotational direction.

Therefore, whether the first portion of the fourth power transmission 115 a is moving in the third linear direction or the fourth linear direction, the first output shaft 104 a always rotates in the same direction (e.g the first rotational direction). Similarly, whether the first portion of the fourth power transmission mechanism 115 a is moving in the third linear direction or the fourth linear direction, the third output shaft 104 c always rotates in the same direction (e.g. the second rotational direction).

In this configuration, a fourth lever arm 112 d can be attached to the first portion of the fourth power transmission mechanism 115 a via a fourth lever connector 114 d to effectuate the linear movement of the first portion of the fourth power transmission mechanism 115 a. The distance of the linear movement can be modified by changing the size of the fifth and sixth shift gears 124 e, 124 f. Alternatively, additional shift gears can be inserted in between the third and fourth output wheels 120 c, 120 d. Preferably, the number of additional shift gears should be an even number so that the first output shaft 104 a and the third output shaft 104 c rotate in opposite directions.

Like the first and second lever arms 112 a, 112 b, the second and third lever arms 112 c, 112 d may be configured to maximize economy of motion. For example, the third lever arm 112 c may be defined by a third elongated body defining a third longitudinal axis 170 c and having a third pivoting end 172 c and a third free end 174 c opposite the third pivoting end 172 c. The third pivoting end 172 c comprises a third pivoting slot 176 c and is pivotably connected to the frame 102 (for example, at post 153 a) at the third pivoting slot 176 c, such that the third lever arm 112 c can pivot about a pivoting axis 190 and can move bidirectionally along the third longitudinal axis 170 c via the third pivoting slot 176 c. The third free end 174 c may comprise a third support 179 c to improve the leverage at the third free end 174 c.

A fourth lever arm 112 d defined by a fourth elongated body defines a fourth longitudinal axis 170 d and has a fourth pivoting end 172 d and a fourth free end 174 d opposite the fourth pivoting end 172 d. The fourth pivoting end 172 d comprises a fourth pivoting slot (not shown, but identical to the third pivoting slot 176 c on the third lever arm 112 c) and is pivotably connected to the frame 102 (for example, at post 153 b) at the fourth pivoting slot such that the fourth lever arm 112 d can pivot about the pivoting axis 190 and move bidirectionally along the fourth longitudinal axis 170 d via the fourth pivoting slot. The fourth free end 174 d comprises a fourth support 179 d. Since the third and fourth lever arms 112 c, 112 d are able to move in the direction of their respective longitudinal axes 170 c, 170 d during the pivoting action at their respective pivoting ends 172 c, 172 d, the free ends 174 c, 174 d can move along a linear pathway rather than the typical arcuate pathway that typical cranks arms traverse. Being able to move in a linear pathway allows the user to maximize the amount of force applied to the levers since none of the force is being applied in a wasted direction.

To further facilitate the linear directional movement of the third and fourth ends 174 c, 174 d of the lever arms 112 c, 112 d, crossbars 194 a, 194 b may function as a linear guide rail. The linear guide rails define a third guide slot 182 c and a fourth guide slot 182 d.

A third sliding guide 184 c may be slidably mounted in the third guide slot 182 c, the third sliding guide 184 c operatively connected to the third lever arm 112 c at a third connection point 186 c in between the third free end 174 c and the third pivoting end 172 c. A fourth sliding guide 184 d may be slidably mounted in the fourth guide slot 182 d, the fourth sliding guide 184 d operatively connected to the fourth lever arm 112 d at a fourth connection point 186 d in between the fourth free end 174 d and the fourth pivoting end 172 d. Therefore, from the third connection point 186 c to the third free end 174 c, the third lever arm 112 c cannot move in the vertical direction. Rather any vertical movement of the third lever arm 112 c in the direction of the third longitudinal axis 170 c occurs at the third pivoting end 172 c due to the third pivoting slot 176 c. Similarly, from the fourth connection point 186 d to the fourth free end 174 d, the fourth lever arm 112 d cannot move in the vertical direction. Rather any vertical movement of the fourth lever arm 112 d in the direction of the fourth longitudinal axis 170 d occurs at the fourth pivoting end 172 d due to the fourth pivoting slot. The third lever arm 112 c is also connected to the first portion of the third power transmission mechanism 113 a by a third lever connector 114 c, and the fourth lever arm 112 d is connected to the first portion of the fourth power transmission mechanism 115 a by a fourth lever connector 114 d.

In use, the user can apply a specific amount of downward force on the first lever arm 112 a and convert that force into rotational work on a load 10. Since application of the downward force on the second lever 112 b also causes force to be applied to the load 10, the user is able to apply a continuous force on the load 10 by moving the first and second levers arms 112 a, 112 b in an upward and downward motion, for example, with his feet. Depending on the length of the lever arms 112 a, 112 b, the amount of force imparted on the load 10 can be greater than the amount of force the user applies to the lever arms 112 a, 112 b. The user can then begin using the third lever arm 112 c (with his first hand) to impart additional force to the load 10. Since movement of the third lever arm 112 c in either direction imparts force on the load 10, the load 10 will receive a continuous force from the third lever arm 112 c when the third lever arm 112 c is in motion. Finally, the user can use the fourth lever arm 112 d (e.g. with his second hand) to further add to the force on the load. Since movement of the fourth lever arm 112 d in either direction imparts force on the load, the load 10 will receive continuous force from the fourth lever arm 112 d while the fourth lever arm 112 d is in motion. Any of the lever arms 112 a-d can be used in any combination to add to the amount of force applied on the load 10. In addition, the length of the lever arms, additional shift gears, the size of the gears, and the like can increase the amount of force on the load 10.

In the example shown in FIGS. 8A-8C, an output gear 199 is mounted on the first output shaft 104 a to rotate with the first output shaft 104 a. The output gear 199 can be connected to any load 10 or external device to create work. For example, the output gear 199 can be connected to wheels for transportation, a flywheel for exercise, a generator to generate electricity, or any other type of device to perform the type of work desired.

Numerous other variations can be achieved in light of this teaching. Additional output wheels, one-way bearings, output shafts, and shift gears can be used in a variety of combinations and a variety of positions for a variety of purposes. For example, output wheels, such as the first output wheel 120 a and the third output wheel 120 c can each have one-way bearings so that output wheels 120 a, 120 b, shift gears 124 c, 124 d, output wheels 120 c, 120 d, and shift gears 124 e, 124 f, are not moving when only levers 112 a, 112 b are in use.

In one example, the lever arm 112 a may be 36 inches long. The length is to attach a roller chain type power transmission mechanism 110 for turning the drive wheel 180 degrees. This has worked out to be 16 inches from the fulcrum (pivot axis). The supports 179 a 179 b, such as foot pedals or hand grips, are close to the 36 inch distance to create a swing of approximately 13 inches. Those measurements are to be comparable to a bicycle crank device which has about a 6 inch diameter sprocket and a 13 inch diameter for the pedal rotation. This makes the sprocket/pedal ratio and the lever ratio both a little over 2 to 1. This lever arm 112 a creates an arc of approximately 20 degrees over all, which gives an input at 95% and not the 100% true linear input. This problem is cured by creating the pivot slot 176 a that is approximately 1.25 inches in length. This allows the lever arm 112 a to move back from the top position to the middle, then past half way the lever pulls out and makes a smooth transition. This solution also goes along with the lever wanting to move toward the pivot point when moving toward 90 degrees and moving away from the pivot point when moving the lever away from the 90 degree point.

Preferably, a roller chain type power transmission mechanism 110 should attach directly to the lever arm 112 a, which means the back side of the chain in most cases will need to go through the lever arm 112 a. Using prototypes by attaching the lever to the roller chain, also including the lever sliding guide 184 a, when pushing on a pedal under a heavy force, there is a twisting action which will cause incorrect wear on the roller chain and guide. The pedal itself should also be centered over the lever to eliminate twisting as opposed to projecting laterally to one side.

The power transmission mechanism 110 can be any device that can cause the drive wheel to rotate. As such, the power transmission mechanism 110 can be a flexible device, such as a belt, chain, band, and the like. The power transmission mechanism 110 can also be a rigid structure. For example, as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the power transmission mechanism 110 is in the form of a rack having a first toothed side 200 and a second toothed side 202. Each toothed side 200, 202 is made of equally spaced teeth 204 that would match mated toothed drive wheels 106 a and 106 b. The number of teeth 204 on the power transmission mechanism 110 and mated drive wheel 106 a, 106 b would be determined by the application of the embodiment. As in other drive wheels described in this application, each drive wheel 106 a, 106 b has a one way bearing 108 a, 108 b that is connected to an output shaft 104 a, 104 b. Output wheels 120 a, 120 b may also be mounted on their respective output shafts 104 a, 104 b for rotation with their respective output shafts 104 a, 104 b. A transmission link 122, such as a chain or gear, may operatively connect the first output wheel 120 a with the second output wheel 120 b.

Operation of this embodiment is by the movement of the power transmission mechanism 110 in a first and second linear direction (left and right in the example shown). For example, as shown in FIG. 9A, when the power transmission mechanism 110 is moved in the first linear direction (e.g. to the left), the first drive wheel 106 a rotates clockwise, which results in the one way bearing 108 a engaging and rotating the output shaft 104 a clockwise. Simultaneously, the second drive wheel 106 b rotates counterclockwise. However, due to the orientation of the second one-way bearing 108 b, with this direction of motion by the power transmission mechanism 110, the second drive wheel 106 b freewheels and does not engage the second output shaft 104 b. So with this first linear directional motion of the power transmission mechanism 110, output shaft 104 a will rotate in the counterclockwise direction and output shaft 104 b will remain unaffected.

Similarly, as shown in FIG. 10A, when the power transmission mechanism 110 is moved in the second linear direction (e.g. to the right) the opposite action occurs. The first drive wheel 106 a will rotate counterclockwise, but due to the orientation of the first one-way bearing 108 a, the rotation of drive wheel 106 a will not engage the first output shaft 104 a. With movement of the power transmission mechanism 110 in the second linear direction (e.g. to the right) the second drive wheel 106 b rotates clockwise, and with the orientation of the second one-way bearing 108 b, the second drive wheel 106 b will engage the second output shaft 104 b. So with the second directional motion of the power transmission mechanism 110, the second output shaft 104 b rotates in the clockwise direction and the first output shaft 104 a remains unaffected.

To allow bidirectional movement of the power transmission mechanism 110 to create rotational movement in both output shafts 104 a, 104 b, first and second output wheels 120 a, 120 b can be attached to the first and second output shafts 104 a, 104 b, respectively. The first and second output wheels 120 a, 120 b are operatively connected to each other with a transmission link 122. The transmission link 122 may be a chain, band, and the like as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, or the transmission link 122 may be a shift gear 124 as shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B. Each output wheel 120 a, 120 b is mounted on their respective output shaft 104 a, 104 b so as to rotate in the same direction as their respective output shaft 104 a, 104 b.

Therefore, when the power transmission mechanism 110 moves to the left, as shown in FIG. 9A, the first drive wheel 106 a rotates clockwise. Due to the orientation of the first one-way bearing 108 a, the first drive wheel 106 a causes the first output shaft 104 a to rotate in the clockwise direction. Rotation of the first output shaft 104 a in a clockwise direction causes rotation of the first output wheel 120 a in the clockwise direction. Due to the transmission link 122 connecting the first output wheel 120 a to the second output wheel 120 b, the second output wheel 120 b also rotates in the clockwise direction. Since the second output wheel 120 b is mounted on the second output shaft 104 b so as rotate together, rotation of the second output wheel 120 b in a clockwise direction causes the second output shaft 104 b to rotate in the clockwise direction.

Meanwhile, even though movement of the power transmission mechanism 110 to the left causes rotation of the second drive wheel 106 b in the counterclockwise direction, due to the orientation of the second one-way bearing 108 b, the second drive wheel 106 b is allowed to freewheel in that direction and not interfere with the rotation of the second output shaft 104 b in the clockwise direction.

Similarly, as shown in FIG. 10A, movement of the power transmission mechanism 110 to the right causes rotation of the second drive wheel 106 b in the clockwise direction. Due to the orientation of the second one-way bearing 108 b, the second drive wheel 106 b engages the second output shaft 104 b to cause the second output shaft 104 b to rotate in the clockwise direction. Rotation of the second output shaft 104 b in the clockwise direction causes rotation of the second output wheel 120 b in the clockwise direction. Since the second output wheel 120 b is operatively connected to the first output wheel 120 a via the transmission link 122, the first output wheel 120 a also rotates in the clockwise direction. Since the first output wheel 120 a is mounted on the first output shaft 104 a and configured to rotate with the first output shaft 104 a, the first output shaft 104 a also rotates in the clockwise direction.

Meanwhile, even though movement of the power transmission mechanism 110 to the right causes rotation of the first drive wheel 106 a in the counterclockwise direction, due to the orientation of the first one-way bearing 108 a, the first drive wheel 106 a is allowed to freewheel and not interfere with the rotation of the first output shaft 104 a in the clockwise direction.

Therefore, in this arrangement, regardless of whether the power transmission mechanism 110 moves to the left or to the right, both output shafts 104 a, 104 b always rotate in the same direction (in this example, in the clockwise direction).

As with any of the other embodiments, levers or handles can be attached to the power transmission mechanism 110. Since the power transmission mechanism 110 is a solid shaft in this case, a powered linear input could also be applied to the power transmission mechanism 110 to cause rotational output. It is also possible for this embodiment to be mounted on a frame 102, in multiple positions for any application required.

The foregoing description of the preferred embodiment of the invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. It is intended that the scope of the invention not be limited by this detailed description, but by the claims and the equivalents to the claims appended hereto. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A linear powered input device, comprising: a. a frame; b. a first output shaft rotatably mounted on the frame; c. a first drive wheel having a first one-way bearing operatively connected to the first output shaft, the first one-way bearing operatively connected to the first drive wheel and the first output shaft such that rotation of the first drive wheel in a first rotational direction causes rotation of the first output shaft in the first rotational direction; d. a first output wheel operatively connected to the first output shaft to rotate in the first rotational direction with the first output shaft; e. a second output shaft rotatably mounted on the frame; f. a second drive wheel having a second one-way bearing operatively connected to the second output shaft, the second one-way bearing operatively connected to the second drive wheel and the second output shaft such that rotation of the second drive wheel in the first rotational direction causes rotation of the second output shaft in the first rotational direction; g. a second output wheel operatively connected to the second output shaft to rotate in the first rotational direction with the second output shaft, wherein the first output wheel and the second output wheel are operatively connected to each other such that rotation of the first output wheel causes rotation of the second output wheel and rotation of the second output wheel causes rotation of the first output wheel; and h. a power transmission mechanism operatively connected to the first and second drive wheels such that a first portion of the power transmission mechanism moving in a first linear direction causes the first drive wheel, the first output shaft, the first output wheel, the second output wheel, and the second output shaft to rotate in the first rotational direction, and causes the second drive wheel to rotate in the second rotational direction; and the first portion of the power transmission mechanism moving in a second linear direction opposite the first linear direction, causes the second drive wheel, the second output shaft, the second output wheel, the first output wheel, and the first output shaft to rotate in the first rotational direction, and causes the first drive wheel to rotate in the second rotational direction, wherein the first rotational direction is opposite the second rotational direction.
 2. The linear powered input device of claim 1, further comprising a transmission link connecting the first output wheel to the second output wheel, wherein rotation of the first output wheel causes rotation of the second output wheel, and rotation of the second output wheel causes rotation of the first output wheel.
 3. The linear powered input device of claim 2, wherein the transmission link comprises a toothed gear engaging the first output wheel and the second output wheel, thereby allowing the first output wheel to rotate the second output wheel, and the second output wheel to rotate the first output wheel.
 4. The linear powered input device of claim 2, wherein the transmission link is a continuous loop connecting the first output wheel to the second output wheel such that rotation of the first output wheel rotates the second output wheel, and rotation of the second output wheel rotates the first output wheel.
 5. The linear powered input device of claim 1, wherein the power transmission mechanism is a continuous loop such that movement of the first portion of the power transmission mechanism in either the first linear direction or the second linear direction causes rotation of the first output shaft in the first rotational direction and rotation of the second output shaft in the first rotational direction.
 6. A linear powered input device, comprising: a. a frame; b. a first output shaft rotatably mounted on the frame; c. a first drive wheel having a first one-way bearing operatively connected to the first output shaft, wherein the first drive wheel, the first one-way bearing, and the first output shaft are configured such that rotation of the first drive wheel in a first rotational direction causes the first one-way bearing to rotate in the first rotational direction, which causes the first output shaft to rotate in the first rotational direction; d. a second drive wheel having a second one-way bearing, the second drive wheel operatively connected to the first output shaft and configured such that rotation of the second drive wheel causes the first output shaft to rotate in the first rotational direction; e. a power transmission mechanism operatively connected to the first and second drive wheels such that movement of a first portion of the power transmission mechanism in either a first linear direction or a second linear direction opposite the first linear direction causes rotation of the first output shaft in the first rotational direction, f. a first output wheel operatively connected to the first output shaft to rotate with the first output shaft; g. a second output wheel operatively connected to the first output wheel; h. a transmission link operatively connecting the first output wheel to the second output wheel, wherein rotation of the first output wheel causes rotation of the second output wheel, and rotation of the second output wheel causes rotation of the first output wheel, and i. a second output shaft rotatably mounted on the frame, the second output shaft operatively connected to the second output wheel to rotate with the second output wheel, wherein the transmission link operatively connecting the first output wheel with the second output wheel is configured such that rotation of the first output wheel in the first rotational direction causes the second output wheel to rotate in the first rotational direction so that the first output shaft rotates in the first rotational direction and the second output shaft rotates in the first rotational direction.
 7. The linear powered input device of claim 6, wherein the transmission link comprises toothed gears engaging the first output wheel and the second output wheel allowing the first output wheel to rotate the second output wheel, and the second output wheel to rotate the first output wheel.
 8. The linear powered input device of claim 6, wherein the transmission link is a continuous loop connecting the first output wheel to the second output wheel such that rotation of the first output wheel rotates the second output wheel, and rotation of the second output wheel rotates the first output wheel.
 9. A linear powered input device, comprising: a. a frame; b. a first output shaft rotatably mounted on the frame; c. a first drive wheel having a first one-way bearing operatively connected to the first output shaft, wherein the first drive wheel, the first one-way bearing, and the first output shaft are configured such that rotation of the first drive wheel in a first rotational direction causes the first one-way bearing to rotate in the first rotational direction, which causes the first output shaft to rotate in the first rotational direction; d. a second output shaft rotatably mounted on the frame; e. a second drive wheel having a second one-way bearing operatively connected to the second output shaft, the second one-way bearing operatively connected to the second drive wheel and the second output shaft such that rotation of the second drive wheel in a second rotational direction causes the second one-way bearing to freewheel, and rotation of the second drive wheel in the first rotational direction causes the first output shaft to rotate in the first rotational direction; f. a power transmission mechanism operatively connected to the first and second drive wheels such that movement of a first portion of the power transmission mechanism in either a first linear direction or a second linear direction opposite the first linear direction causes rotation of the first output shaft in the first rotational direction; g. a first output wheel operatively connected to the first output shaft to rotate with the first output shaft; h. a second output wheel operatively connected to the first output wheel; and i. a transmission link operatively connecting the first output wheel to the second output wheel, wherein rotation of the first output wheel causes rotation of the second output wheel, and rotation of the second output wheel causes rotation of the first output wheel, wherein the transmission link operatively connecting the first output wheel with the second output wheel is configured such that rotation of the first output wheel in the first rotational direction causes the second output wheel to rotate in the first rotational direction so that the first output shaft rotates in the first rotational direction and the second output shaft rotates in the first rotational direction.
 10. The linear powered input device of claim 9, wherein the transmission link comprises a toothed gear engaging the first output wheel and the second output wheel allowing the first output wheel to rotate the second output wheel, and the second output wheel to rotate the first output wheel.
 11. The linear powered input device of claim 9, wherein the transmission link is a continuous loop connecting the first output wheel to the second output wheel such that rotation of the first output wheel rotates the second output wheel, and rotation of the second output wheel rotates the first output wheel. 